Olivia Carter
Craving for some crispy potato chips but don’t have a deep fryer or an oven? Don’t worry, because you can make delicious and perfectly crispy potato chips right in your microwave oven! With this easy and quick recipe, you can enjoy homemade chips in no time.
Microwave oven crisps are a healthier alternative to traditional fried potato chips as they require little to no oil for cooking. They are also perfect for those who are looking for a quick snack or a guilt-free treat. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply satisfying your cravings, these microwave oven crisps are a crowd-pleaser.
To make these mouthwatering crisps, all you need are a few simple ingredients: potatoes, cooking spray, salt, and your favorite seasonings. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a flavorful and addictive snack that will keep you coming back for more.
Preparing the Potatoes
To make crispy microwave oven crisps, start by selecting large, firm potatoes. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well for this recipe. Wash the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, carefully slice the potatoes into thin, even rounds. Aim for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick. You can leave the skin on for added texture and flavor, or peel the potatoes if desired.
After slicing the potatoes, place them in a large bowl filled with cold water. This will help remove excess starch from the potatoes, resulting in crisper crisps. Allow the potatoes to soak for about 10 minutes.
Once the potatoes have soaked, drain them and pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Removing the excess moisture from the potatoes will ensure that they become crispy when cooked in the microwave.
- If you prefer seasoned crisps, you can toss the sliced potatoes with your favorite spices or herbs at this point. Some popular options include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Alternatively, you can keep the potato slices plain and season them after they are cooked.
Now that the potatoes are prepared, it’s time to move on to the next step of the recipe.
Washing and Peeling the Potatoes
Before you can start making microwave oven crisps, you need to properly prepare the potatoes. This involves washing and peeling them to ensure a clean and crispy final product.
Start by rinsing the potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Use a vegetable brush to gently scrub the skin, ensuring that all surfaces are clean.
Once the potatoes are clean, pat them dry with a paper towel. This will help ensure that the oil and seasoning stick to the potatoes during the cooking process.
Next, use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin from the potatoes. Hold the potato firmly in one hand and the peeler in the other. Start at one end of the potato and use a steady motion to peel away the skin, rotating the potato as you go. Repeat this process for all the potatoes you plan to use.
After peeling the potatoes, you can choose to slice them into thin rounds or cut them into thin julienne strips. The choice is yours and depends on the type of crisp you prefer.
Remember, the size and thickness of the potato slices or strips will affect the cooking time in the microwave, so try to make them as evenly sized as possible. This will ensure that all the crisps cook at the same rate.
Tip:
If you prefer a rustic homemade look, you can leave the skin on the potatoes. Just make sure to wash them thoroughly before slicing or cutting them.
Cutting the Potatoes into Thin Slices
Before you can start making microwave oven crisps, you need to prepare the potatoes by cutting them into thin slices. The thickness of the slices will determine how crispy your crisps will turn out. For the best results, aim for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick.
Start by washing and peeling the potatoes. Once they are clean, use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer to cut them into thin and uniform slices. If you are using a knife, try to make the slices as thin as possible by using a steady hand and applying even pressure.
If you have a mandoline slicer, it can help you achieve more consistent and uniform slices. Adjust the thickness setting on the slicer to the desired thickness, and guide the potatoes through the blades to get thin and even slices.
It’s important to note that the thinner the slices, the quicker they will cook in the microwave oven. Thicker slices may require more time to achieve the desired crispness, so keep that in mind when cutting your potatoes.
Pro Tips:
1. Choose the right potato: For microwave oven crisps, it’s best to use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold, as they have a lower water content and will crisp up nicely.
2. Soak the sliced potatoes: After cutting the potatoes into slices, place them in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for about 15 minutes. This will remove some of the excess starch and help the crisps become even crispier.
Once you have finished cutting the potatoes into thin slices, you are ready to proceed to the next step in making microwave oven crisps.
Seasoning the Potato Slices
Once you have sliced your potatoes into thin, even slices, it’s time to season them. The seasoning is what will give your crisps their delicious flavor. Here are a few options for seasoning your potato slices:
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Salt and Vinegar
If you enjoy the classic combination of salt and vinegar, then this seasoning option is for you. Simply sprinkle salt and a few drops of vinegar over the potato slices. Be sure to spread the seasoning evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
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Chili Lime
If you prefer a tangy and slightly spicy flavor, try seasoning your potato slices with chili lime. Mix together chili powder, lime zest, and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle this mixture over the potato slices, making sure to coat them evenly.
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Rosemary and Garlic
For a more aromatic and savory flavor, consider seasoning your potato slices with rosemary and garlic. Crush a few cloves of garlic and chop some fresh rosemary. Sprinkle the garlic and rosemary over the potato slices, making sure they are evenly coated.
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and create your own unique flavor combinations. Once the potato slices are seasoned to your liking, they are ready to be microwaved to crispy perfection.
Choosing the Desired Seasonings
When it comes to making microwave oven crisps, choosing the right seasonings is essential to elevate the flavor of your crispy snacks. The possibilities are endless, and you can get as creative as you want with your seasoning choices. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
1. Salt and Vinegar: If you’re a fan of the classic salt and vinegar potato chips, recreate that tangy and salty flavor by sprinkling a mixture of salt and vinegar over your chips before microwaving them.
2. Barbecue: For a smoky and slightly sweet taste, try using a barbecue seasoning mix. It will add a rich and savory flavor to your microwave crisps.
3. Sour Cream and Onion: Capture the deliciousness of sour cream and onion chips by combining dried onion flakes with sour cream powder. This seasoning blend will give your crisps a creamy and tangy flavor.
4. Chili Lime: For a zesty and spicy kick, sprinkle your microwave crisps with a mixture of chili powder and lime zest. This combination will add a burst of flavor to your chips.
5. Cheese and Herb: If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle your chips with a mixture of grated Parmesan and dried herbs such as oregano or thyme. The cheese will melt and create a crispy and flavorful topping.
Remember, the key to choosing the perfect seasoning is to think about the flavors you enjoy the most. Don’t be afraid to experiment and create your own unique combinations. Whether you prefer classic flavors or want to try something new, the right seasonings can make your microwave oven crisps truly irresistible.
Coating the Potato Slices with Seasonings
To add flavor to your microwave oven crisps, you’ll need to coat the potato slices with a variety of seasonings. This step is crucial in creating a delicious and satisfying snack.
Here’s how you can do it:
1. Prepare your preferred seasoning mixture. You can choose from a range of options, such as salt and vinegar, barbecue, or cheese and onion. Combine your chosen seasonings in a small bowl or shaker.
2. Take each potato slice and sprinkle a generous amount of the seasoning mixture onto one side. Ensure that the seasonings are evenly distributed to maximize the flavor.
3. Flip the potato slice over and repeat the process on the other side, ensuring both sides are coated evenly.
4. Gently press the seasonings into the potato slices to help them adhere better.
Note: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can sprinkle a smaller amount of the seasoning mixture onto the potato slices.
5. Place the seasoned potato slices onto a microwave-safe plate or dish, making sure there is enough space between each slice to ensure even cooking.
By coating the potato slices with seasonings of your choice, you’ll take your microwave oven crisps to a whole new level of taste and satisfaction.
Preparing the Microwave
Before you start making microwave oven crisps, it’s important to prepare your microwave properly. Here are the steps you need to follow:
Step 1: Clean the microwave thoroughly by wiping down the interior with a damp cloth. Remove any leftover food or spills that may be present. This will ensure that your crisps don’t pick up any unwanted flavors or become contaminated.
Step 2: Place a microwave-safe plate or tray inside the microwave. This will act as a surface for your crisps to cook on and prevent them from sticking to the microwave’s turntable.
Step 3: Adjust the power level of your microwave to medium. This will allow your crisps to cook evenly without becoming too crispy or burning.
Step 4: Set the cooking time for your crisps. This will vary depending on the type of crisps you are making and the thickness of the slices. Start with a shorter cooking time and adjust as needed to achieve your desired level of crispiness.
Step 5: Place your sliced vegetables or fruits on the microwave-safe plate or tray in a single layer. Make sure to leave some space between the slices to allow for even cooking.
Step 6: Place the plate or tray in the microwave and close the door securely. Start the microwave and let it cook your crisps according to the cooking time you set.
Step 7: When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the plate or tray from the microwave using oven mitts or a heat-resistant glove. Be cautious as the plate or tray may be hot.
Step 8: Let the crisps cool down for a few minutes before serving. This will allow them to become extra crispy and firm up.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to properly prepare your microwave for making delicious and crispy oven crisps. Enjoy!
FAQ
What are microwave oven crisps?
Microwave oven crisps are thinly sliced potatoes that are cooked in the microwave until they become crispy. They are a quick and easy alternative to traditional oven-baked crisps.
How do I make microwave oven crisps?
To make microwave oven crisps, you will need to thinly slice a potato and arrange the slices in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate. Then, season the slices with salt and any other desired spices. Microwave the slices on high power for about 4-5 minutes until they become crispy. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before enjoying.
